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Screen sharing software is a tool that enables users to share their desktop content—including browsers, documents, spreadsheets, and other files—with other users in real time over the Internet. In doing so, remote users (viewers) are able to access, observe, and (in some cases) control the sharing party’s (presenters) screen. As a result, users are able to collaborate with one another much more effectively. In addition to collaboration, this software has other applications also—i.e. remote help desk, web conferencing for online meetings, webitorials, and the list goes on. That being said, it’s hard to deny how effective screen sharing can be, and developers know this. As such, there are a number of options fit with somewhat bloated pricing. While screen sharing can allow for greater efficiency/productivity, cost can turn off many businesses to the prospect of these solutions; however, now there are a variety of free screen sharing solutions designed specifically for certain platforms (i.e. Mac, PC, etc.). So, to help enlighten users, (specifically Mac Users), we’ve compiled a list of 20 Free Screen Sharing solutions for Mac users.

1. Chrome Remote Desktop: Allows users to access another computer through Chrome browser or a Chromebook. While this software contains basic functionality, it lacks many of the features found in competitor’s softwares.

2. ScreenLeap: ScreenLeap also has a number of priced solutions; however, the free solution includes one click sharing, 2 hours/day usage, shared servers, and public broadcasts. Users should note that this mode does not include encryption. This software also includes extensions for users’ browsers and Gmail accounts.

4. Quick Screen Share: This free software doesn’t require any installation (assuming users have Java) or registration. This is a “side project” from Screencast-O-Matic.com and is still in BETA. Currently, this works by creating a direct peer-to-peer connection.

5. FuzeBox: FuzeBox has a number of different solutions (some priced); however, their Free Solution allows for up to 3 participants, 3 HD video streams, Screen and Content sharing, 250 MB cloud sharing, meeting recordings, and unlimited VoIP audio.

7. WebEx: Allows users to meet online and share files, information, and expertise with one another. With a Free Basic plan, users are privy to 3 people per meeting, 1 host license, standard-quality video, VoIP audio, desktop, whiteboard, and document sharing, support resources, and 250 MB of storage.

8. Jing: This screen sharing software allows users to customize and send screenshots to web-based social networks. Also, users can select regions of their screens for recording. Note Jing video is limited to 5 minutes.

9. Skype: With this users can share their screen with one contact in a voice call for free. For video calls one would need Skype premium. As such, users can display presentations, display photos, and more.

12. Vyew: This browser based service has advertisements (free version), but includes up to 10 real time participants and a room limit of 20. Additionally, users can publish “rooms” on various platforms.

13. ScreenHero: Currently in Beta, this software utilizes peer-to-peer connection 92% of the time, and uses servers for the remaining 8%. Additionally, login credentials and every session are encrypted with PSP TLS scheme.

14. ScreenStream Screen Broadcasting: This free downloadable software works to share screens so users are able to watch screens by typing the link address (and optional access code). Additionally, this software does not require users to install any special software to view their screen. Instead, all that’s needed is an Internet browser.

15. LogMeIn: LogMeIn Free provides users (up to 10 computers) with free remote access to one’s desktop enabling one to open files, check their email, run programs, and much more. As such, this software can be run from a mobile device or any computer as it works over the Internet.

16. Zoom.us: Zoom’s personal plan is free and allows up to 25 participants to join for free. Additionally, this plan includes unlimited 1-to-1 meetings, unlimited number of meetings, up to 25 video streams per meeting, and 40 minutes per meeting. Some other key features include HD video, HD Voice, HQ desktop and application sharing, and more.

17. Join.me: With the free option, users can add up to 10 participants and have access to a number of features including screen sharing, as well as internet calling, share control, multi monitor, chat, file send, and more.

18. TightVNC: Free for personal and commercial use. Allows users to both view and control a remote desktop. Additionally, users can choose to download TightProjector, which projects a desktop onto many networked PCs.

19. Bosco’s Screen Share: Leverages bandwidth to avoid per minute charges and works with any personal web sharing system to enable sharing through various web browsers.

While the above softwares are available for Mac users, it’s important to note that the Mac OS X operating system featured a built-in screen sharing option. This option allows users to control Mac displays remotely; however, it does not support cross-platform usage and doesn’t include some of the features other softwares do. That being said, users are able to use the above softwares in conjunction with the built in feature, too. The choice is ultimately theirs. As stated above, screen sharing can be an invaluable tool, and now that there are free options, there’s no reason for users to refrain from at least trying some options out.